Battle of White Plains

The Battle of White Plains (28 October 1776) was a battle of the American Revolutionary War that occurred during the New York campaign of 1776. After a short battle, George Washington's army was again forced to retreat further north, living to fight another day.

After being held back at the Battle of Harlem Heights, General William Howe landed troops at Pell's Point on 18 October, and Howe intended to trap Washington's army between his forces at Pell's Point, those on Manhattan, and Royal Navy warships that were to advance down the Hudson River from Canada (which were ultimately held off at the Battle of Valcour Island). Howe encamped at New Rochelle, and Washington's retreating army made camp at White Plains on 27 October. Washington failed to establish firm control over local high ground, and Howe attacked on 28 October. Once more outnumbered and outflanked, Washington managed to escape across the Hudson River into New Jersey, leaving behind 3,000 men at Fort Washington.